List of U.S. states and territories by African-American population

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African Americans by state

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Black Americans by county

List of U.S. states and territories by African-American population provides an overview of the distribution of African-American population across the United States and its territories. The African-American population in the U.S. is a significant aspect of the nation's demographics, contributing to the cultural, economic, and social fabric of the country. This list is based on data from the United States Census Bureau, which conducts a national census every ten years, along with annual population estimates.

Overview

The African-American population in the United States has its roots in the transatlantic slave trade, with the majority of African Americans being descendants of enslaved Africans brought to the U.S. from the 16th to the 19th century. Following the Civil War and the abolition of slavery, significant demographic shifts occurred, with African Americans moving to different parts of the country during events like the Great Migration.

As of the most recent census, the states with the highest African-American populations include Georgia, Texas, Florida, and New York, while the District of Columbia also has a significant African-American community, often having the highest percentage of African Americans in comparison to any state or territory.

List by State and Territory

The list below outlines the U.S. states and territories by their African-American population, both in terms of total numbers and as a percentage of the overall population. This list is subject to change with new census data and population estimates.

States

1. Mississippi - Highest percentage of African Americans relative to the state's total population.
2. Louisiana
3. Georgia
4. Maryland
5. South Carolina
6. Alabama
7. North Carolina
8. Delaware
9. Virginia
10. Texas
11. Florida
12. New York
13. Illinois
14. Michigan
15. Ohio

Territories

1. District of Columbia - Not a state, but has a high percentage of African-American residents.
2. Puerto Rico
3. U.S. Virgin Islands
4. Guam
5. American Samoa
6. Northern Mariana Islands

Demographic Trends

The distribution of the African-American population is influenced by historical, economic, and social factors. Urban areas and the South have traditionally had larger African-American populations. Recent decades have seen a reverse migration of sorts, with African Americans moving to the South and suburban areas, driven by factors such as housing affordability, job opportunities, and quality of life.

Challenges and Contributions

The African-American community faces various challenges, including disparities in health, education, and economic opportunities. Despite these challenges, African Americans have made significant contributions to American culture, politics, sports, and science.

See Also

• Demographics of the United States
• History of African Americans
• Great Migration (African American)
• Civil Rights Movement